This Is the End (2013) – Movie Review
Starring: Seth Rogen, James Franco, Danny McBride, Jonah Hill, Craig Robinson
Directed by: Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg
9 out of 10
“This is the End” is easily the funniest movie of the year and one of the most laugh-out-loud experiences I’ve had in a long time. Fans of Rogen and the gang’s other work will be delighted at the plethora of “nerdy-bro” humor that includes their usual staple of weed and wiener jokes.
The plot begins with Rogen and his friend Jay Baruchel going to a party at James Franco’s home in Los Angeles. Everyone in the movie plays exaggerated versions of themselves. The first 30 minutes of the movie may be the best, as viewers are treated to numerous cameos of famous stars acting wild, often against type, and interacting with one another just like us normal folks do.
After being introduced to the characters, the plot begins to unfold when all hell seems to break loose outside. The party abruptly ends and the main cast chose Franco’s abode to ride out the anarchy.
The rest of the movie is filled with zany antics such as fighting over the last of the supplies, where to masturbate and arguing over who is really in charge.
The laughs are distributed pretty evenly throughout the movie and the jokes never seem forced or the plot taken too seriously. This is really just a group of the funniest guys in showbiz playing off each other’s personalities. Danny McBride in particular really brought his “A” game to this movie, and newcomer to the group, Craig Robinson enriches every scene.
My only complaint would be with Jay Baruchel, who is framed as the “straight man” in this comedy and the one of the highest moral fiber. This would be fine and work terrifically, if he were likable. An example of a good straight man is Luke Wilson in “Old School.” His character is one a viewer can relate with and the movie can frame the plot around in order to logically keep the funny scenarios coming. Instead, Baruchel’s nasally voice and whiny contributions seem to not do much but annoy me.
Overall this is a great comedy and I recommend everyone go see it.
“This is the End” is currently showing in Columbus, Ga at the Carmike 13 and 15.
